This International Standard specifies the requirements for valve protection caps and guards for gas cylinders. This International Standard defines tests for checking the mechanical strength and physical properties of the valve protection cap or valve guard. This International Standard applies to protection devices for valves used on cylinders for liquefied, dissolved or compressed gases. This International Standard excludes protection devices for cylinders with a water capacity of 5 l or less and cylinders whereby the protection device is fixed by means of lugs welded or brazed to the cylinder, or is welded or brazed directly to the cylinder. This International Standard does not cover valve protection for breathing apparatus cylinders. This International Standard does not specify all the requirements that may be necessary to enable the valve protection device to be used for lifting the cylinder.